Be cautious of the source of honey to prevent mad honey poisoning

Recently, a man suffered from mad honey poisoning after consuming a honey product brought from Nepal. HKPCC reminds the public that honey is generally non-toxic; however, we should pay attention to the honey originated from India, Nepal, and the Black Sea region of Turkey. Some honey products from these regions are marketed for its purported health benefits and is even considered as an aphrodisiac in local market. Accidental consumption of these honey products can result in mad honey poisoning. Mad honey poisoning is caused by consuming honey that contains grayanotoxin, a neurotoxin derived from plants in the rhododendron family, which can affect the nervous system and muscles. Symptoms can appear shortly after consumption and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, sweating, and hypersalivation. Severe cases may result in hallucinations, low blood pressure, and bradycardia. HKPCC advises patients to lie down in a safe place and seek emergency medical assistance. A&E doctors would alleviate patients’ symptoms by administering the anticholinergic drug atropine.

What to note when consuming honey?

1. Before purchasing, be cautious of the honey claiming to have special effects, especially those produced in India, Nepal, and the Black Sea region of Turkey.
2. Buy honey from reliable sources or reputable apiaries.
3. All honey has the potential being contaminated with Clostridium botulinum spores. Avoid feeding honey to infants under one year old.